Work has commenced on the $70 million Busselton-Margaret River regional airport expansion project in Western Australia. For the project's development, contracts have been awarded to Ertech Ltd Pty and Arup.

Ertech has been awarded the design and construction contract for works on the airside. Works will include the lengthening, widening and strengthening of the existing runway. Ertech is also responsible for the construction of new apron parking bays and connecting taxi ways as well as new aeronautical ground lighting.

Arup, on the other hand, has been awarded the contract for the design and construction of the new terminal building as well as landside precinct.

Construction will commence on the new terminal and landside precinct by late 2017.

The airport’s expansion will allow it to cater to direct flights to and from capital cities located on the east coast as well as future direct international flights.

“The development of interstate services to the region will attract new interstate visitors and bring additional tourism opportunities, which will have significant benefits for local businesses and enable broader economic and industry development in the South West.

“It will also have a positive impact on long-term regional development by lowering the cost of doing business in the region, attracting regional investment and creating local employment opportunities in logistics, agriculture, aquaculture and other supporting industries,” said Regional Development Minister Terry Redman.

According to Transport Minister Bill Marmion, the airport’s expansion will include upgrades to the existing runway and construction of a new passenger terminal which will allow larger planes to land at the airport. The expansion will also give the terminal additional capacity to accommodate more travellers.

“The project will create local employment opportunities during construction and support long-term regional development by bolstering regional tourism, attracting new visitors to the region, increasing the length of stay and expenditure,” said City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley.

The project is due to be completed by late 2018.

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